Introduction

I launched my website on January 28th. Initially, I observed low web traffic and engagement, which prompted me to use social media to drive more users to my site. I experimented with different types of content to see what would appeal most to my audience.

Data Collection Timeline

Note: AET refers to Average Engagement Time.

Date Actions Taken Metrics Observations
January 28th Website Launch No data available -
January 29th
  • Posted link on student forum
  • Made an Instagram post and added the website link to my Instagram bio
  • New Users: 35
  • AET: 30 seconds
Low engagement time likely due to limited site content.
February 18th - 20th No social media posts
  • Users: 5
  • AET: 4 seconds
Minimal engagement due to lack of new content and promotion.
March 1st - March 15th Posted various pictures of my cat on social media.
  • Views: 119
  • AET: 16 seconds
Slight increase in engagement, but still low.
March 17th
  • Posted a unique image of a cat in a cup with the hashtag "#PurrfectBrew" (View Image)
  • Revamped the About Me page to include buttons leading to different sections (graphic design, web design, photography)
  • Total Views: 188
  • About Me Page Views: 79
  • AET: 1 min 15 sec
  • Portfolio Views: 86
  • Portfolio AET: 1 min 31 sec
  • Total Engagement Time: 2 min 35 secs
Significant improvement in engagement due to the unique content and better website navigation.

Analysis and Insights

  • Initial Low Engagement: The website's initial low engagement was due to limited content and navigation options.
  • Improved Engagement with Unique Content: Posting unique and engaging content (e.g., the cat in a cup) significantly increased user interaction.
  • Enhanced Navigation: The addition of buttons on the About Me page leading to different sections improved user exploration and engagement.
Graph showing the website engagement improvement on March 17th

The graph above illustrates the significant improvement in website engagement on March 17th. The introduction of unique content, such as the image of a cat in a cup with the hashtag "#PurrfectBrew", and the revamped About Me page, which included buttons for different sections like graphic design, web design, and photography, led to:

  • An increase in total views to 188.
  • About Me page views increased to 79.
  • AET improved to 1 minute and 15 seconds.
  • Portfolio views increased to 86 with an AET of 1 minute and 31 seconds.
  • Total engagement time rose to 2 minutes and 35 seconds.

This data suggests that both unique content and better navigation can significantly boost user engagement on a website. The increase in engagement and traffic indicates that the content resonated well with the audience, leading to more interaction and longer time spent on the site. This positive trend highlights the importance of continually updating and improving content to maintain and grow user engagement.

Furthermore, the data implies that visual content, particularly involving popular subjects like cats, can be highly effective in capturing and retaining audience interest. The targeted use of hashtags also played a crucial role in reaching a wider audience. By strategically using hashtags related to the content, such as "#PurrfectBrew," the posts gained more visibility and attracted more visitors to the website.

The improved navigation with specific buttons to different sections of the website also made it easier for users to explore various aspects of the site, contributing to higher engagement metrics. This approach aligns with best practices in web design, where ease of navigation and clear pathways to content can enhance user experience and satisfaction.

Conclusion

By posting unique content and improving website navigation, I was able to significantly increase both traffic and engagement on my site. The data suggests that unique, visually appealing content combined with easy navigation is key to retaining users' attention.

Download the full Google Analytics Report (PDF)

Next Steps

  • Content Strategy: Continue posting unique and engaging content regularly.
  • Website Improvements: Further enhance the site’s navigation and content organization.
  • Monitor Metrics: Regularly track engagement metrics to understand user behavior and preferences.